Monsoon to Reach Kerala Within 24 Hours, Earliest Arrival in 16 Years. This timely arrival will boost Kharif crop sowing.
Kerala: The arrival of the monsoon in India is a significant event, and this year's early arrival in Kerala holds special importance. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts that the southwest monsoon will reach Kerala within the next 24 hours. This will mark the earliest monsoon arrival in the last 16 years, generating widespread jubilation among farmers and agricultural sectors across the nation.
Monsoon Poised to Set a New Record After 16 Years
The monsoon is expected to reach Kerala almost a week ahead of its scheduled date (June 1st). This is the first time since 2009 and 2001 that the monsoon is arriving so early. The normal onset of the monsoon in Kerala is June 1st, but this year it may arrive as early as May 25th-26th. According to the meteorological department, all conditions are favorable for the monsoon's arrival in Kerala. This is largely attributed to a low-pressure system and moisture-laden winds from the Arabian Sea.
Why is Timely Monsoon Arrival Important?
Approximately 70% of India's rainfall occurs during the monsoon season, which runs from June to September. This rainfall is crucial for agriculture, drinking water, electricity generation, and groundwater levels. Timely and sufficient rainfall strengthens the nation's economy, particularly the agricultural sector. This year, the IMD has predicted above-normal rainfall, leading to expectations of record-high yields for Kharif crops (such as rice, maize, soybean, and cotton).
Impact on the Agricultural Sector
- Timely sowing of Kharif crops like rice and maize will be possible.
- Groundwater and reservoirs will be replenished, reducing irrigation challenges during the Rabi season.
- Agricultural production will increase, strengthening the nation's food security.
- Farmers' incomes will rise, boosting the rural economy.
Monsoon's Path After Kerala
- After Kerala, the monsoon will gradually progress towards Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Goa, and Gujarat.
- Over the next few days, the southwest monsoon will advance into Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, central and south Arabian Sea, southern parts of the Bay of Bengal, and parts of Northeast India.
- The monsoon is likely to reach North India (Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab) between June 25th and 30th.
- West India (Rajasthan, Gujarat) can expect the monsoon between June 15th and 20th.
Impact of the Low-Pressure System
The low-pressure system forming over the Arabian Sea may intensify over the next 36 hours. This could lead to increased rainfall intensity in parts of Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, and Maharashtra. High waves are anticipated at sea, and fishermen have been advised to exercise caution. Wind speeds may increase along the western coast, resulting in localized weather changes.
Monsoon History: Records of Early and Late Onsets
- Earliest Monsoon Arrival: May 11, 1918 (in Kerala)
- Latest Monsoon Arrival: June 18, 1972 (in Kerala)
- Last year (2024) monsoon arrival: May 30th.
Monitoring Monsoon Progress
With many parts of the country experiencing severe heat, the monsoon is eagerly awaited. Therefore, closely monitoring the weather department's updates in the coming days is crucial. Farmers are advised to plan their sowing schedules based on the monsoon's progress and to heed weather alerts.
Farmer Expectations from this Year's Monsoon
According to the IMD, the 2025 monsoon is expected to be better than normal. This should lead to increased production of Kharif crops like rice, maize, soybean, cotton, and oilseeds. This will boost the rural economy, strengthen food security, and increase agriculture's contribution to the nation's GDP.
